Kevin Reilly leaving as UW president

University of Wisconsin System President Kevin Reilly is leaving to advise the American Council on Education (ACE) in January 2014 and plans to teach.

Reilly, 63, is the second-longest serving leader in the system's history. He has been the UW System president since 2004.

"We overcame financial headwinds to build a higher education system that expanded access to college classrooms for Wisconsin families and responded to the needs of our economy for skilled graduates able to compete and succeed in a global economy," Reilly said in a statement.

Reilly was in the hot seat in the state capitol in April as lawmakers wanted an explanation of a multimillion-dollar UW reserve fund. Reilly told lawmakers he planned to create a policy with the Board of Regents that would decide how much to keep in reserve and how to report it more publicly.

Regent President Michael Falbo says Reilly was a "strong, effective leader for the UW System" as it grew to serve more than 182,000 students statewide.

In his new position, Reilly will work closely with ACE President Molly Corbett Broad on programs that serve college and university presidents and chancellors as well as other senior leaders and rising administrators.

Governor Scott Walker released the following statement on Reilly:

"The state of Wisconsin has deep respect and gratitude for President Reilly’s contributions to the UW System, including his work to focus the university’s attention on economic and workforce development. He initiated conversations with the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation leading to a very promising partnership with the UW System. I also appreciate the leadership he has provided for the innovative UW Flexible Option, which will enhance college access for working adults."

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